“God is in our presence”, is the title of an old hymn. Its original title “Remembering the glorious and sweet presence of God” expresses what people tend to often forget, namely that God is their daily companion.

The past year was marked by changes in the governing body of the Church. Four District Apostles retired in 2018. A brief retrospective on men full of generosity and energy.

The definition of ministry remains a prominent topic: in 2018, the focus was above all on the priestly ministry. New regulations will come into effect on Pentecost 2019. The Chief Apostle himself will inform the members in detail in advance.

Proclaiming the gospel to non-Christians and being innovative … This is what Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider calls for in his article on the universality of the church and the gospel. More in the newest issue of community.

Christ comes before the Church, the gospel before rules, salvation of the soul before tradition. In June 2018, the Chief Apostle gave an exclusive interview and answered the question, “Quo vadis, NAC?” Following are the most important excerpts from the three-part interview.

Praising God with a velvet voice, loving God against all odds, and doing volunteer work abroad with no thought of self. This is how Manilo, Mannki, and Angela live their faith, each in his or her own unique way.

This question is often asked. Answers and advice are typically found in the Chief Apostle’s sermons. Following are core thoughts from divine services in 2018.

Many things are conceivable in the Philippines, or to be more exact, on the island of Cebu. Even a delicious Christmas dinner with German dumplings. A chef from Saxony in Germany is making it happen.

It is more blessed to give than to receive, the Bible tells us—something many practise. A look across the continents shows that many people give gladly of what they have, be it gifts and talents, time, or money. And it always creates joy and gratitude.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, the popular saying goes. Traditionally, confirmation services in Argentina and Brazil take place on the first Sunday in December. It has to do with the school holidays.

The Catechism at your fingertips … Whether in the pew, on the road, or at home, this mobile app is an essential tool. Get the latest version of this free app now.

Berlin is worth a visit. The more than 30 million tourists a year who visit Berlin should know. This weekend, Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider will be in the German capital. He will be conducting a service in our church Berlin-Tegel.

To be rich would be a Utopia for many people. But there is also a state of wealth that can be assessed inwardly: I am rich because of my joy, my children, or the fulfilment of wishes. Inner wealth: there are many possibilities.

About four million euros went to one hundred projects in 24 countries: this what the 2017 annual report of NAK-karitativ states. The report was published recently and describes some of the fates behind the figures.

A dual pastoral care commitment: in the congregation and for war veterans. Craig Esterhuizen has dedicated himself to help in word and deed. On the recent centenary marking the end of World War One he received additional support.

A canvas in brilliant tone colours. This is what the regional church is working on which Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider will be visiting this weekend.

I AM is the name of the pop oratorio that will be staged in English for the first time at the International Youth Convention 2019. Originally a German composition, the lyrics were translated into English by Jeremy Dawson. Life has taught him: “God gives first and asks later.”

Ministers should know what they are talking about. The faithful not only expect advice and answers from ministers in all kinds of matters, but also expect them to react with empathy when problems arise. Training can help in this.